Study Objectives: To estimate the prevalence of screening for OSA by pediatric dentists associated with the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry (AAPD).Methods: Members of the AAPD were solicited to participate in an online survey. Associations with demographic characteristics were tested using logistic regression.Results: Overall, only 70% of pediatric dentists do some form of screening for OSA. Compared to pediatric dentists in practice more than 30 y, those in practice less than 5 y are significantly more likely to report screening for OSA (82% versus 60%, p = 0.0389). Compared to pediatric dentists located in the northeast, those practicing in the western states are significantly more likely to report screening for OSA (82% versus 60%, p = 0.0104). Approximately 72% of pediatric dentists report some lack of confidence regarding their capability for OSA screening.Conclusions: These data demonstrates the need for pediatric dentists to become more aware of OSA screening methods, and the screening tools need to be improved so that they may be applied more accurately and confidently.
High-risk patients over the age of 65, who had chronic medical conditions, and had not yet had a primary care visit within 2020 were identified. A subgroup of patients participated in a survey to assess social determinants of health (SDOH) in the setting of a pandemic. Outcomes of those who participated in the survey, and those who did not participate were compared. Notably, those who were surveyed and lived within zip codes with low socioeconomic status had significantly decreased emergency department visits, which we defined as a discharge from the emergency department without hospitalization, as compared to those who did not receive outreach. Rates of inpatient hospitalization did not differ significantly. These findings suggest that patient outreach to evaluate SDOH during a pandemic leads to more appropriate emergency department and hospital resource utilization. This finding is particularly impactful given the current pandemic, which may place a strain on emergency department, and healthcare resources.
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